The Hinckley Reservoir Day Use Area is located on the south shore of the 2,880-acre Hinckley Reservoir. The Reservoir is managed by the New York State Canal Corporation and is used to maintain water levels in the canal system. The water levels fluctuate seasonally with the lowest water levels typically in August.

Featured Activities

Designated swimming areas are available at some DEC facilities. Based on staffing, some of these facilities may have limited swimming hours/days. For the safety of our customers, swimming will only be permitted when a lifeguard is on duty. Beach hours will be posted at facilities with swimming. To inquire, please contact the facility directly.

Canoes, kayaks, and small row boats can access the Reservoir from the beach.

Paddlers should use caution on this water. Due to its size and east-west orientation, high winds often create large waves. The water also receives heavy use by motorboats. Paddlers should stay close to the shore during periods of high winds.

Planning and Management

The Hinckley Reservoir Unit Management Plan, when developed, will guide the DEC's land management activities at this facility for a five-year period, although a number of goals and objectives in the plan will focus on a much longer time period. The UMP will address specific objectives and actions for public use at the facility. The Reservoir is managed by the New York State Canal Corporation and is used to maintain water levels in the canal system.

For more information regarding the UMP for this facility please contact the Bureau of Recreation, New York State Department of Environmental Conservation, 625 Broadway, Albany, NY 12233, Telephone 518-457-2500, or email: campinfo@dec.ny.gov